Culture: The defining factor in who we are

If you ask an average person where they are from, they’ll likely respond with their state, city, or country of origin. But the real indicator of who we are is not where we come from, but rather our culture – the way in which we were raised, the things that we have learned since birth, and the people with whom we’ve surrounded ourselves along the way. It can be hard to pinpoint exactly what makes someone’s culture unique, but it shows in everything from language to cuisine to social norms and values.

First impressions

Maybe it's the way they're dressed or the way they carry themselves. Maybe it's their accent or the way they speak. Or maybe it's something about their demeanor that just seems off. Whatever it is, our first impressions of people are often shaped by their culture. What may seem odd to one person may seem normal to another because they were raised differently. If two people from different cultures were to be introduced and immediately disliked each other, this might not be a matter of bigotry. Instead, it could simply be an indication that their cultures don't mesh well with one another. We all have expectations of how others should behave, and when those expectations aren't met there can be some disappointment. However, if two people show patience and understanding for the difference between their cultures then those initial reservations may subside.

Home Town Etiquette

I was born and raised in the south, so good manners and hospitality are a must. Saying please and thank you, holding doors open for others, and treating everyone with respect is second nature to me. I take pride in my southern roots and the culture that comes with it. Living in California has been challenging at times because some people think I’m being rude or stuck up because of my accent or demeanor. My friends from home come out here often and say that when they go into stores back home they don’t have to be on their best behavior like they do here! I had never thought about it before but I guess if your culture doesn't teach courtesy then you're not going to act that way no matter where you live.

It's an interesting concept and one I'll have to keep in mind going forward.

Classroom Etiquette

Since culture is such a big part of who we are, it's important to be aware of and respectful of the cultural differences in our classrooms. Here are a few tips for you to consider when teaching with students from different cultures.

-Dealing with eye contact: In some cultures, looking someone in the eye may be seen as disrespectful or even threatening.

-Handshakes and hugs: Some people from other countries may not understand the American tradition of shaking hands after meeting for the first time or hugging someone they know well. It's best to ask before initiating a handshake or hug.

-Touching others: Touching others without their permission can be seen as an invasion of personal space, especially among adults.

-Personal space: Don't stand too close to others unless invited to do so; this will show respect for personal space.

Job Etiquette

Different cultures have different expectations when it comes to job etiquette. In the United States, for example, it is common to shake hands when meeting someone new. In Japan, however, bowing is the norm. While some Americans may see this as an insult, most Japanese would be deeply offended if a handshake was offered instead of a bow. Even though they might not realize it at first, Americans should do their best to learn about and follow the customs of other countries before they commit any faux pas! One of the more obvious things that people from one culture don't understand about another culture is food. Some foods, like pork or beef, are considered unclean by Hindus or Muslims and cannot be eaten by them because of religious beliefs. If you offer these foods to your Hindu coworker and he refuses politely, don't insist that he try it again because he will feel uncomfortable after his refusal and there's no reason for him to feel pressured.

Dating Etiquette

When it comes to dating, there are a lot of different cultures out there. And while it's always important to be respectful of someone's culture, it's also important to be aware of your own. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to dating etiquette for each of the most popular cultural groups. - Dating Etiquette and Indian Culture: While it is not required that you marry within your religion or caste, Indian parents often put pressure on their children to marry within these boundaries. It is common for Hindu parents to do matchmaking. - Dating Etiquette and Japanese Culture: Japanese couples often won't share personal information like their address with others before they get married. They might have certain rituals at the time of marriage such as drinking sake together. After marriage, newlyweds go to live with one set of parents until they can buy a house and start their own family unit. Some Japanese people will go through kimono-choosing ceremonies where people choose what kimono they want to wear at the wedding.

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